Tour Itinerary

Day 1 Rio de Janeiro

After guests are picked up from their hotels, we will begin this walking tour, which is designed to provide a unique snapshot of the legends and stories woven into the narrow streets and historical buildings of downtown Rio de Janeiro. The walk includes visits to many interesting places, such as the Sao Bento Monastery, Candelaria Church, Praca XV, the Travessa do Mercado, the Imperial Palace, the Banco do Brasil Cultural Center, the Casa Franca-Brasil, Rua do Ouvidor, and Rua Goncalves Dias, where we will visit the traditional Confeitaria Colombo. Our walk will continue down Uruguaiana Street, through Largo da Carioca to the Metropolitan Cathedral, where guests will board transportation that will return them to their hotels. Please see "Departure and Return" for more detailed information.

Rio de Janeiro, BRAZILUsually referred to simply as "Rio," this Brazilian coastal city is famous for its annual Carnival celebration. Rio de Janeiro sees millions of tourists every year, more than any other South American city.

Sao Bento MonasteryBuilt in the mid-17th century, this monastery is run by Benedictine monks. The modest exterior may fool you - the interior design is very ornate, and made entirely of wood, unlike the stone of European churches.

Candelaria ChurchThis famous church in Rio is the subject of a local legend about a 17th century ship that narrowly survived a storm. The exterior of the building is baroque in style, while the interior mixes Neoclassical and Neo-Renaissance elements.

Praca XVThe historical center of Rio, this large, public square is the location of the Paco Imperial, the Palacio Tiradentes, and the Legislative Assembly of Rio de Janeiro. It is a large semicircular area, perfect for people-watching.

Imperial PalaceBuilt in the 18th century, this palace can be found in the Praca XV square in Rio. The site of many important historical events in Brazil's history, the palace now houses the Paulo Santos Library.

Centro Cultural Banco do BrasilThe largest of three locations, this center alone attracts millions of visitors each year. It houses theaters for both plays and film, as well as multiple art galleries. The other buildings are in Sao Paulo and Brasilia.

Casa Franca-BrasilA neoclassical building in Rio's Centro district with skylights, it was built in the early 19th century. Currently, the building serves as a museum for modern art. In the past it was a customs house, among other functions.

Rua do OuvidorOnce considered the most important street in Rio, Ouvidor begins at the city's port and cuts through the heart of the Centro district, passing by many historic buildings in the area, and is lined with cafes and bookstores.

Rua Goncalves DiasNamed for an important figure in Brazilian history, this street is a narrow pedestrian walkway that passes by many old fashioned buildings. The Colombo Confectionery can be found on the street, a perfect place to get sweets.

Confeitaria ColomboThis large complex is a wonderful place to get sweets in the Centro district in Rio. The first floor is a cafe and confectionery, while the second floor houses the Christopher Restaurant. It has been open for over 120 years.

Largo da CariocaConsidered by many as the heart of Rio, this large public square has been the site of many important historical events in Brazil's past. It is the location of the city's cathedral and many modern buildings.

Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint SebastianA remarkable departure from the usual neoclassical designs of many of the country's churches, Rio's Saint Sebastian Cathedral is incredibly modern: it resembles a cone without the tip, taking some inspiration from Mayan pyramids.

Departure & Return

Free hotel pick up is available from major Rio De Janeiro hotels around 1:00pm. Please put hotel name in the "Hotel Info" area when booking. Exact pick up time and departure location will confirm later.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions

Transportation

Tour guide

Exclusions

Food and beverages

Gratuities

Parking Information

Additional Notes

Policies

Confirmation

All purchases are subject to re-confirmation within 2-3 business days after booking. Please do not book the airline tickets until you received the confirmation.

Redemption

Complete operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your e-ticket. You must print and bring e-ticket(s) on your trip, as they serve as proof of purchase.